KR20150023794A - Agglomerate reduction in a nanowire suspension stored in a container - Google Patents

Abstract

Methods and articles of manufacture for storage and transport of nanowires are disclosed. One disclosed method comprises the steps of: (a) providing a nanowire suspension comprising nanowires suspended in a liquid; And (b) disposing a nanowire suspension in the vessel for storage and transport, wherein the vessel is configured to inhibit agglomeration of the nanowire from the nanowire suspension.

Description

≪ Desc / Clms Page number 1 > AGGLOMERATE REDUCTION IN A NANOWIRE SUSPENSION STORED IN A CONTAINER < RTI ID =

Cross-reference to related application

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 660,940 filed on June 18, 2012, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Technical field

The present invention relates generally to nanowires. More specifically, the present invention relates to the reduction of aggregates in nanowire suspensions.

Nanostructures can be significantly different from bulk materials similar to that. Much effort has been devoted to synthesizing nanowires to take advantage of the properties of nanowires, especially for a variety of applications.

There are two basic approaches to synthesizing nanowires: top-down and bottom-up. In a top-down approach, large pieces of material are reduced to small pieces through techniques such as plate and electrophoresis. In a bottom-up approach, nanowires are synthesized by a combination of constituent atoms. Most synthesis techniques are based on a bottom-up approach.

One particular bottom-up approach is referred to as solution synthesis. In the nucleus synthesis method, the nanowires can be grown from a reaction mixture comprising a solvent, a reagent comprising a material that forms the nanowire, and a casting agent. As the reaction mixture is heated, the casting agent is able to bind to the side crystal faces of the nanowire seeds, thereby leading to growth preferentially along the longitudinal direction substantially perpendicular to the side crystal faces.

Once the nanowire is synthesized, the nanowire can be suspended in the solvent, and the resulting suspension can be transferred to a container for storage and transportation.

Against this backdrop, it is necessary to develop the embodiments described herein.

Summary of the Invention

One aspect of the invention relates to a method of storing nanowires. In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: (a) providing a nanowire suspension comprising nanowires suspended in a liquid; And (b) disposing the nanowire suspension in a storage container, wherein the container is configured to inhibit agglomeration of nanowires from the nanowire suspension.

In some implementations, the head space of the vessel is sized to inhibit evaporation of liquid from the nanowire suspension. In some implementations, the walls of the vessel are resistant to adhesion of the nanowires from the nanowire suspension. In some implementations, the walls of the vessel are resistant to wetting by liquids. In some implementations, the walls of the vessel are formed or coated with a fluoropolymer such as selected from polytetrafluoroethylene, fluorinated ethylene propylene, and ethylene tetrafluoroethylene. In some implementations, placing the nanowire suspension in a vessel is followed by synthesis of the nanowire in the nanowire suspension.

In some implementations, the head space of the vessel is sized to inhibit evaporation of liquid from the nanowire suspension, and the walls of the vessel are resistant to wetting by the liquid. In such an embodiment, the walls of the vessel may be formed or coated with a fluorinated polymer, such as fluorinated ethylene propylene.

In some implementations, the container includes a movable plunger of a size and shape that fits the inner cross-section of the container, and placing the nanowire suspension in the container limits the nanowire suspension to a volume between the movable plunger and the orifice of the container . In such an embodiment, the walls of the vessel may be resistant to wetting by liquids.

In some implementations, the head space of the container is sized such that the ratio of the volume of the head space of the container to the total internal volume is no more than 10%, for example no more than 5%, no more than 4%, no more than 3%, no more than 2% It is decided.

In some implementations, the walls of the container are resistant to wetting by liquids, and the walls may be at least 90 degrees, such as at least 95 degrees, at least 100 degrees, at least 105 degrees, at least 110 degrees, at least 115 degrees, at least 120 degrees , 125 °, 130 °, 135 °, 140 °, 145 °, or 150 °.

In some embodiments, the shelf life of a nanowire suspension stored in a container is at least 14 days, such as at least 30 days, at least 60 days, at least 90 days, at least 120 days, at least 150 days, at least 180 days, or at least 365 days.

In another embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: (a) providing a nanowire suspension comprising nanowires suspended in a liquid; And (b) disposing a nanowire suspension in the container for storage, wherein the wall of the container is at least (1) resistant to adhesion of the nanowire from the nanowire suspension; (2) resistance to wetting by liquid.

In some implementations, the walls of the vessel are formed or coated with a fluorinated polymer, such as fluorinated ethylene propylene. In some implementations, the head space of the containment vessel is sized to inhibit evaporation of liquid from the nanowire suspension.

Another aspect of the invention is an article of manufacture. In one embodiment, the article of manufacture comprises (a) a storage container; And (b) a nanowire suspension disposed in the storage vessel, wherein the nanowire suspension comprises nanowires suspended in a liquid, wherein the storage vessel is configured to inhibit aggregation of the nanowires from the nanowire suspension do.

In some implementations, the containment vessel comprises a wall formed or coated with a material resistant to adhesion of nanowires from the nanowire suspension. In some implementations, the containment vessel comprises a wall formed or coated with a material that is resistant to wetting by liquid. In some implementations, the containment vessel comprises a wall formed or coated with a fluorinated polymer, such as fluorinated ethylene propylene.

In some implementations, the head space of the containment vessel is sized to inhibit evaporation of liquid from the nanowire suspension. In some implementations, the containment vessel is configured in a form having an adjustable head space. In some implementations, the containment vessel includes a movable plunger of a size and shape that fits within the interior section of the containment vessel, and the nanowire suspension is confined to the volume between the movable plunger and the bore of the containment vessel. In such an embodiment, the storage container may comprise a wall formed or coated with a fluorinated polymer.

In some implementations, the head space of the storage container may be such that the ratio of the volume of the head space of the storage container to the total internal volume is 10% or less, such as 5% or less, 4% or less, 3% or less, 2% The size is fixed.

In certain implementations, the containment vessel includes a wall that is resistant to wetting by the liquid, the wall having a diameter greater than 90 degrees, such as greater than 95 degrees, greater than 100 degrees, greater than 105 degrees, greater than 110 degrees, greater than 115 degrees, A contact angle of 120 DEG or more, 125 DEG or more, 130 DEG or more, 135 DEG or more, 140 DEG or more, 145 DEG or more, or 150 DEG or more.

In some embodiments, the shelf life of a nanowire suspension disposed in a storage container is at least 14 days, such as at least 30 days, at least 60 days, at least 90 days, at least 120 days, at least 150 days, at least 180 days, or at least 365 days.

In another embodiment, the article of manufacture comprises (a) a storage container; And (b) a nanowire suspension disposed in the storage vessel, wherein the nanowire suspension comprises nanowires suspended in a liquid, the storage vessel comprising: (1) a nanowire suspension resistant to adhesion of the nanowire from the nanowire suspension; ; (2) resistance to wetting by liquids. ≪ Desc / Clms Page number 2 >

In some implementations, the walls of the storage vessel are formed or coated with a fluorinated polymer, such as fluorinated ethylene propylene. In some implementations, the head space of the containment vessel is sized to inhibit evaporation of liquid from the nanowire suspension. In some implementations, the containment vessel is configured in a form having an adjustable head space.

Other aspects and embodiments of the invention are also contemplated. The foregoing summary and the following detailed description are not meant to limit the invention to any particular embodiment, but merely as illustrative of certain embodiments of the invention.

In order to better understand the nature and objects of certain embodiments of the present invention, the following detailed description should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
Fig. 1 (a) shows the agglomeration problem of the nanowires stored in a container, and Fig. 1 (b) shows a solution to solve the problem according to the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 illustrates the contact angle between a solid surface and the drop of a given liquid disposed thereon, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figures 3 (a), 3 (b) and 3 (c) illustrate different shapes of liquid meniscus that can be caused by adjusting the wettability of the inner wall surface, according to embodiments of the present invention.
Figures 4 (a) and 4 (b) illustrate different degrees of adhesion of the nanowires to the inner wall surface, according to embodiments of the present invention.
Figure 5 illustrates an additional solution to the agglomeration problem of nanowires stored in a container, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
Figures 6 (a), 6 (b) and 6 (c) are images showing evaluation results relating to certain aspects of the invention.
Figures 7 (a), 7 (b) and 7 (c) are images showing evaluation results relating to certain aspects of the present invention.
Figures 8 (a), 8 (b) and 8 (c) are images showing evaluation results relating to certain aspects of the invention.

Justice

The following definitions apply to aspects described in connection with certain embodiments of the present invention. These definitions may similarly be extended here.

As used herein, words representing a single form include a plurality of objects unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to an object may include multiple objects, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

The term "set" as used herein refers to the collection of one or more objects. Thus, for example, a set of objects may comprise a single object or a plurality of objects. A set of objects may also be referred to as members of the set. The objects of the set may be the same or different. In some cases, an object in the set may share one or more common characteristics.

As used herein, the term "adjacent" Adjacent objects may be spaced apart or in actual or direct contact with each other. In some cases, adjacent objects may be interconnected or formed integrally with each other.

The terms " substantially "and" about "as used herein are used to describe and describe minor changes. When used in conjunction with an event or situation, these terms can indicate cases where events or circumstances are most likely to occur, as well as where events or circumstances occur correctly. For example, the term may be used in the following order: ± 10%, eg ± 5%, ± 4%, ± 3%, ± 2%, ± 1%, ± 0.5%, ± 0.1% The following can be shown.

As used herein, the terms "optional" and " optionally "mean that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and such description includes instances where the event or circumstance occurs do.

The terms "adherent "," adhering "and" adhering ", as used herein, are intended to encompass a set of objects being deposited on a surface, a set of objects being coupled to a surface, Or that the object set is in contact with or adjacent to the surface.

As used herein, the term " nanometer range "or" nm range "refers to a range of dimensions from about 1 nm to about 1 micrometer ([mu] m). nm range " representing a range of dimensions from about 1 nm to about 10 nm, "intermediate nm range" representing a range of dimensions from about 10 nm to about 100 nm, and a range of dimensions from about 100 nm to about 1 & Upper nm range ".

As used herein, "micrometer range" or "micrometer range" refers to a range of dimensions from about 1 μm to about 1 mm. Mu m range "representing a range of dimensions from about 10 [mu] m to about 100 [mu] m and a range of dimensions from about 100 [mu] m to about 1 mm "Top nm range" representing the range.

The term "nanostructure" as used herein refers to an object having at least one dimension in the nm range. Nanostructures can have any of a wide variety of shapes and can be formed from a wide variety of materials. Examples of nanostructures include nanowires, nanotubes, and nanoparticles.

The term "nanowire" as used herein refers to an elongated nanostructure that is substantially solid. Typically, the nanowire has a lateral dimension in the nm range (e.g., a width or a cross-sectional dimension in the form of a diameter that represents an average across the width, diameter, or orthogonal direction), a longitudinal dimension (e.g., length) Aspect ratio.

The term "nanotube" as used herein refers to an elongated hollow nanostructure. Typically, the nanotubes have a lateral dimension in the nm range (e.g., a width that represents an average across the width, an outer diameter or a perpendicular direction, or a cross-sectional dimension in the form of an outer diameter), a longitudinal dimension It has a large aspect ratio.

The term "nanoparticle" as used herein refers to an elliptical nanostructure. Typically, each dimension of the nanoparticles (e.g., width, diameter, or cross-sectional dimension in the form of a diameter that represents the average across the direction of the right angle) is in the nm range and the nanoparticles have an aspect ratio of less than about 3,

The term "microstructure" as used herein refers to an object having at least one dimension in the micrometer range. Typically, each dimension of the microstructure is in the 탆 range or above the 탆 range. Microstructures can have any wide range of shapes and can be formed from a wide range of materials. Examples of microstructures include microwires, microtubes, and microparticles.

The term "microwire" as used herein refers to an elongated microstructure that is substantially solid. Typically, the microwire has a side dimension in the micrometer range (e.g., a width or a cross-sectional dimension in the form of a diameter that represents an average across the width, diameter, or orthogonal direction) and an aspect ratio of about 3 or greater.

The term "microtube" as used herein refers to an elongated hollow microstructure. Typically, the microtube has a lateral dimension in the micrometer range (e.g., a width that represents an average across the width, an outer diameter or a perpendicular direction, or a cross-sectional dimension in the form of an outer diameter), a longitudinal dimension It has a large aspect ratio.

The term "microparticle" as used herein refers to an oval microstructure. Typically, each dimension (e.g., width, diameter, or cross-sectional dimension in the form of a diameter that represents the average across the direction of the right angle) of the microparticles is in the micrometer range and the microparticles have an aspect ratio of less than about 3,

Nanowire  keep

Embodiments of the present invention relate to storing nanostructures while reducing or inhibiting nanostructure aggregate formation. Examples of nanostructures include various materials such as metals (e.g., silver (or Ag), nickel (or Ni), platinum (or Pt), copper (or Cu) and gold Si), indium phosphide (or InP), gallium nitride (or GaN)), optionally doped and transparent conductive oxides and chalcogenides such as optionally doped and transparent metal oxides and chalcogenides, electrically conductive polymers such as polyaniline, poly (P-phenylenevinylene), poly (3-alkylthiophene), oleylindole, polypyrrole, polyphenylene sulfide, (Or PEDOT), poly (styrenesulfonate) (or PSS), PEDOT (polyaniline), polyaniline, -PSS, PEDOT-polymethacrylic acid, poly (3-hexylthiophene), poly (3-octylthiophene) Ester) and poly [2-methoxy-5- (2'-ethyl-hexyloxy) -1,4-phenylene vinylene]), the insulating material (such as silica (SiO ₂₎ and titania (or TiO ₂₎₎ And nanowires that may be formed of any combination thereof. The nanowire may have a core-shell configuration or a core-multi-shell configuration.

Although certain embodiments are described in the context of nanowires, additional embodiments may be considered for storage of other types of nanostructures, such as other types of nanostructures that are generally elongated and have an aspect ratio of about 3 or more. Additional embodiments may be practiced for storage of microstructures, such as microstructures that are generally elongated and have an aspect ratio of about 3 or more.

In some embodiments, the nanowires are formed according to a solution synthesis reaction. In a solution synthesis reaction, the nanowires can be grown from a reaction mixture comprising a solvent, a reagent comprising a material that forms the nanowires, and a casting agent. As the reaction mixture is heated, the propellant (for example, the capping agent) binds to the side crystal faces of the nanowire seeds to promote lateral growth, whereby growth is preferentially induced along the longitudinal direction substantially perpendicular to the side crystal plane . An example of a solution synthesis reaction is sometimes referred to as a polyol process for the production of metal nanowires, wherein the capping agent bonds to the {1 0 0} plane of the 5-fold twinned seed structure and grows at {1 1 1} Lt; / RTI > Other types of solution synthesis reactions are also included in the present invention. Nanowires formed according to electrospinning are also included in the present invention.

In the case of metal nanowires, examples of suitable metal-containing reagents include metal salts such as silver nitrate (or AgNO ₃ ), acetic acid (or (CH ₃ COO) ₂ Ag), trifluoroacetate (or (CF ₃ COO) ₂ Ag), phosphoric acid (or Ag ₃ P0 _4), perchloric acid is (or AgCl0 _4), perchlorate, gold (or Au (Cl0 _{4) 3),} chloroauric acid (or HAuCl _4), Part II chloride, palladium (or PdCl _2), palladium acetylacetonate (or _{Pd (C 5 H 7 0 2} ) 2), palladium nitrate (or Pd (N0 _{3) 2),} potassium tetrachloro Palazzo date (II) (or K ₂ PdCl ₄₎ (Or Pt ₂ Cl ₂ ), potassium hexachloroplatinate (or K ₂ PtCl ₆ ), chloroplatinic acid (or H ₂ PtCl ₆ ), platinum acetylacetonate (or Pt (C ₅ H ₇ 0) ₂ ) ₂ ), and any combination thereof. Examples of suitable starters (also sometimes referred to as "capping agents ") include polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyaryl amides, polyacrylics, and any combinations or copolymers thereof. Examples of suitable solvents include polar solvents, in which the metal-containing reagents, casting agents and any other reactants or additives are sufficiently soluble. The solvent may also function as a reducing agent to convert the metal-containing reagent into its corresponding metal element form. Typically, the reducing solvent comprises at least two hydroxyl groups per molecule. Examples of suitable reducing solvents include diols, polyols, glycols or mixtures thereof. More specifically, the reducing solvent may be, for example, ethylene glycol, 1,2-propylene glycol, 1,3-propylene glycol, glycerin, glycerol, glucose or any combination thereof. The use of hydrophobic solvents, such as non-polar solvents, is also encompassed by the present invention. (Or NaCl), chloroplatinic acid (or PtCl2), palladium chloride (or < _{RTI ID} = 0.0 > (Or PdCl ₂ ), quaternary ammonium salts (such as cetyltrimethylammonium bromide) and other salts or ionic additives may be included to increase yield and promote uniformity of the nanowire morphology.

Once the solution synthesis reaction is carried out, the crude product from the reaction can be purified. Specifically, the synthesized nanowires can be separated from other components of the reaction mixture, and then redispersed in a suitable solvent or other liquid to form a nanowire suspension. Nanowire suspensions may also be formulated as coating compositions or ink compositions.

Examples of suitable redispersing solvents include alcohols, water, hydrocarbons (such as paraffins, halogenated hydrocarbons and alicyclic hydrocarbons), alkenes, alkynes, ketones, ethers, and combinations thereof. For example, the nanowires may be redispersed in isopropyl alcohol, methanol, ethanol, water, or combinations thereof. Other specific examples of suitable solvents are 2-methyltetrahydrofuran, chloro-hydrocarbons, fluoro-hydrocarbons, acetaldehyde, acetic acid, acetic anhydride, acetone, acetonitrile, aniline, benzene, benzonitrile, benzyl alcohol, Butanoic acid, cyclohexane, cyclohexane, cyclohexane, cyclohexane, cyclohexane, cyclohexane, cyclohexane, cyclohexane, cyclohexane, cyclohexane, cyclohexane, cyclohexane, cyclohexane, cyclohexane, cyclohexane, cyclohexane, But are not limited to, pentane, pentanone, cyclopentyl methyl ether, diacetone alcohol, dichloroethane, dichloromethane, diethyl carbonate, diethyl ether, diethylene glycol, diglyme, diisopropylamine, dimethoxyethane, Amide, dimethylsulfoxide, dimethylamine, dimethylbutane, dimethylether, dimethylformamide Ethyl propionate, ethylene dichloride, ethylene glycol, fumaric acid, isobutanol, isobutanol, isobutanol, isobutanol, isobutanol, But are not limited to, formic acid, glycerin, heptane, hexafluoroisopropanol, hexamethylphosphoramide, hexamethylphosphoramide, hexamethylphosphoramide, hexane, hexanone, hydrogen peroxide, hypochlorite, i-propyl acetate, isopropyl alcohol, isopropyl amine, ketone peroxide, methanol and calcium chloride solutions, methoxy ethanol, methyl acetate, methyl ethyl ketone, methyl formate Methyl n-butyrate, methyl n-propyl ketone, methyl t-butyl ether, methylene chloride, methylene, methylhexane, methylpentane, mineral oil, m- -Butanol, n-decane, n-hexane, nitrobenzene, nitroethane, nitromethane, nitropropane, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone, n-propanol, octafluoro-1-pentanol, , Pentanone, petroleum ether, phenol, propanol, propionaldehyde, propionic acid, propionitrile, propyl acetate, propyl ete, propyl formate, propylamine, p-xylene, pyridine, pyrrolidine, sodium hydroxide, A solvent such as tetrahydrofuran, tetrahydrofuran, tetrahydrofuran, tetrahydrofuran, tetrahydrofuran, tetrahydrofuran, triethylamine, trifluoroacetic acid, trifluoroethanol , Trifluropropanol, trimethylbutane, trimethylhexane, trimethylpentane, valeronitrile, xylene, xylenol, and other similar compounds or solutions and any combination thereof The.

More generally, redispersible solvents include, but are not limited to, water, ionic or ionic liquids, ionic liquids, organic solvents (e.g., polar organic solvents; nonpolar organic solvents; Protic solvent); An inorganic solvent, or a combination thereof. Oils can also be considered as suitable solvents.

Once the nanowires are redispersed and suspended in a suitable solvent or other liquid, the resulting nanowire suspension can be delivered to the container for handling, storage and transport. When the nanowire suspension is stored in a container formed of glass or other similar material, agglomerates of nanowires during storage and transportation tend to form on such suspensions. For example, in the case of silver nanowires, aggregate formation is exacerbated when a suspension of silver nanowires is stored at high concentrations (e.g.> 10 mg / ml) of silver nanowires. Without being bound by any particular theory of operation, this effect can be caused, at least in part, in approaching or reaching the solubility limit for silver in isopropyl alcohol or other liquids. Additionally, as the concentration of silver nanowires in the suspension increases, the interaction between the nanowires may play a greater role in the fluid dynamics of the suspension. Random impacts with solvent molecules (sometimes referred to as Brownian Fluctuating Force, sometimes referred to as Brownian Fluctuating Force) can be considered for nanometer scale objects. In the dense suspension, uneven pockets of solvent molecules can be present along the length of the nanowire, which can lead to uneven Brown forces along the length of the nanowire, thereby inducing torque. Rotation of several nanowires close to each other in the suspension can lead to the formation of bundles, braids or "bird's nests" of nanowires. These bundles are less stable in solution than individual wires, and thus settle in the suspension and settle on the walls or floor of the container. Also, while not bound to any particular theory of operation, nanowire agglomeration can result from other mechanisms, such as initial deposition of nanowires on the vessel walls, subsequent deposition of nanowires on the deposited nanowires, Entanglement of the nanowires is generated.

Once the nanowire is entangled with the aggregate, the nanowire can not easily be restored to its original state. This is especially problematic when the nanowires have a larger aspect ratio or longer growth, which is in stark contrast to nanoparticles or other elliptical nanostructures. Unlike nanoparticles, agglomerated nanowires are difficult to separate back into dispersed nanowires because further agitation, milling, or even ultrasonic treatment can aggravate, or even destroy or fragment, the agglomeration of individual nanowires . The agglomerated nanowires are strongly adhered to the walls of the container and may exhibit loss of useful materials during storage and transportation. The agglomerated nanowires can also form clumps and can be de-stabilized and precipitate from the suspension, which can subsequently clog the coating or printing machine and result in discoloration or other visible defects on the coating , The resulting film uniformity, low haze and high transparency.

According to embodiments of the present invention, agglomeration of the nanowires from a suspension stored in a vessel can be reduced or inhibited by storing the nanowire suspension in a manner that inhibits aggregate formation. Some embodiments of the present invention implement techniques to inhibit agglomerates of nanowires from suspending from adhering to or depositing from a suspension wall. In some embodiments, the nanowire suspension can be prepared by inhibiting evaporation of the solvent or other liquid from the suspension, thereby inhibiting the wetting of the vessel wall by the solvent or other liquid, thereby inhibiting adhesion of the nanowire to the vessel wall, Or any combination thereof.

Figure 1 (a) shows the nanowire agglomeration problem, and Figure 1 (b) shows a solution to the problem according to embodiments of the present invention. As can be seen in FIG. 1 (a), the suspension comprises nanowires 120a dispersed in a solvent 110a, and the suspension is placed in a container 100a, such as a glass bottle. Although the container 100a is relieved with the stopper 150a, the evaporation of the solvent 110a can occur in the head space 140a on the liquid meniscus of the suspension. If the head space is relatively large, a significant degree of evaporation may occur from the suspension to the point where a portion of the solvent 110a adjacent to the liquid meniscus is evaporated from the suspension. This evaporation nano wire 130a adheres to the wall 155a of the container 100a and becomes entangled as an aggregate as shown in Fig. 1 (a).

As shown in Fig. 1 (b), one solution to this problem is to adjust the head space 140b of the container 100b to control the degree of evaporation of the solvent 110b from the suspension of nanowires 120b So that it is a proper size. Specifically, the head space 140b of the container 100b is sized or shaped by filling the container 100b with a sufficient volume of suspension to reduce the remaining head space 140b (e.g., a narrow-mouth bottle, a wide-mouth bottle), or a combination thereof. By reducing the head space 140b, evaporation of the solvent 110b is suppressed, thereby suppressing adhesion of the nanowire 120b to the wall 155a of the container 100b.

In some implementations, the sizing of the head space 140b may be such that the ratio (expressed as a percentage) of the volume to the total internal volume of the head space 140b of the container 100b is less than about 10%, such as less than about 5% , Up to about 0.5%, up to about 0.1%, up to about 0.05%, or even up to about 0%, such that up to about 3%, up to about 2% or up to about 1% have. In some implementations, the sizing of the head space 140b may be such that the ratio (expressed as a percentage) of the width of the neck portion of the container 100b to the width of the main body portion of the container 100b is less than or equal to about 70% , About 60% or less, about 55% or less, about 50% or less, about 45% or less or about 40% or less and about 30% To < RTI ID = 0.0 > and / or < / RTI > In some implementations, a limited (though relatively small) volume of head space 140b may be retained to allow thermal expansion of the suspension of nanowires 120b when placed in the range of typical temperature changes during storage and transportation.

Or alternatively with regard to the sizing of the head space 140b the degree of evaporation of the solvent 110b can be reduced by configuring the plug 150b of the container 100b to be substantially leak- . The cap 150b may be embodied as a cap that can be secured to the neck of the container 100b, for example, through a neck and optionally a thread formed on the set of seal rings. An example of a leak test is described as follows. The container 100b may be filled with a certain volume of water or other liquid. The cap 150b may then be screwed over the neck portion of the container 100b at the specified torque value to lock the container. The container 100b is turned over so that the water covers the neck portion and the connection portion of the plug 150b. A suitable atmospheric pressure (e.g., 2 psig) may be applied for a period of time (e.g., 2 minutes). Once the pressure is released, the cap 150b may be removed and inspected. If substantially no water is found on the cap 150b or the thread, the container 100b can be measured to be leak-proof. In order to further reduce the degree of evaporation, a tape or film may be wrapped around the stopper 150b, the neck portion of the container 100b, the body portion of the container 100b, or any combination thereof.

Another solution to the nanowire agglomeration problem is to suppress the wetting of the wall 155b of the container 100b by the solvent 110b or to inhibit the adhesion of the nanowire 120b to the wall 155b, The container 100b is configured so as to be able to suppress both of the container 100a and the container 100b. In some implementations, the wall 155b of the container 100b may be formed of or coated with a material that is resistant to wetting by the solvent 110b, is resistant to adhesion of the nanowire 120b from the suspension, . In certain implementations, a particular material may be used to form or coat the wall 155b to provide a combination of wet- and adhesive-resistant properties. In another embodiment, a combination of different materials can be used to form or coat the wall 155b to provide a combination of wet- and adhesive-resistant properties. For a given container 100b, a similar solution to the problem is to properly select solvent 110b so that solvent 110b tends to avoid or reduce contact with the material forming or coating wall 155b.

As will be appreciated, wetting or wetting typically refers to the tendency of a liquid to maintain or avoid contact with a solid surface, resulting from intermolecular interaction when the liquid and solid surface are brought into contact. The degree of wetting can be measured by force equilibrium between the adhesive force and the cohesive force, where the adhesion force between the liquid and the solid surface can cause the liquid drop to diffuse across the surface while the cohesive force in the liquid causes the drop to clump, Lt; / RTI > can be avoided. One measure of wettability is the contact angle between a solid surface and a given liquid drop disposed on the surface. As shown in Figure 2 according to embodiments of the present invention, the contact angle [theta] is the angle at which the liquid-vapor interface intersects the solid-liquid interface. In this embodiment, the liquid 201 drop is located on the solid surface 202. As the tendency to diffuse over the solid surface 202 of the liquid 201 increases, the contact angle decreases. Conversely, as the tendency to diffuse over the solid surface 202 of the liquid 201 decreases, the contact angle increases. Thereby, the contact angle provides an inverse measure of wetting. A contact angle of less than 90 DEG (low contact angle) typically indicates that wetting of the surface is desirable (high wetting) and the liquid is about to diffuse over the surface. A contact angle of 90 DEG or greater (high contact angle) typically indicates that wetting of the surface is undesirable (low wetting) and that the liquid avoids or reduces contact with the surface to form a compressed liquid drop.

Referring again to FIG. 1 (b), a suitable wet-resistant material that may be used to form or coat the walls 155b of the container 100b may have an angle of at least 90 degrees, such as at least about 95 degrees, At least about 105 degrees, at least about 110 degrees, at least about 115 degrees, at least about 120 degrees, at least about 125 degrees, at least about 130 degrees, at least about 135 degrees, at least about 140 degrees, at least about 145 degrees, Having a contact angle of up to about 160 degrees, up to about 170 degrees, up to and including about 175 degrees. Such a contact angle may be specified for a given liquid, e.g., solvent 110b where nanowire 120b is suspended.

The use of wet-resistant materials can provide a variety of benefits in terms of solving the problem of nanowire agglomeration. For example, and with reference to FIG. 1 (b), the suspension portions can be replaced as the container 100b is tilted, shaken or otherwise moved during handling or transportation, and the walls 155b of the container 100b can be replaced, As shown in FIG. Due to the low wetting properties of the inner wall surface, solvent 110b will try to avoid or reduce contact with the inner wall surface and will quickly slide down the inner wall surface toward the rest of the suspension, for example in the form of a compression liquid drop. As solvent 110b slides down wall 155b, nanowire 120b is carried with solvent 110b toward the rest of the suspension, thereby interfering with nanowire 120b remaining on wall 155b Are entangled as agglomerates.

As another example, the low wetting properties of the inner wall surface can affect the shape of the liquid meniscus, thereby inhibiting nanowire aggregation. Figures 3 (a), 3 (b) and 3 (c) show different shapes of liquid meniscus which can be caused by controlling the wettability of the inner wall surface according to embodiments of the present invention. 3 (a) shows a scenario of a highly wetted inner wall surface wherein the liquid meniscus takes on a concave shape as the liquid diffuses upwardly along the wall 355a and FIG. 3 (b) Wherein the liquid meniscus takes a relatively flat or horizontal line shape adjacent the wall 355b and Figure 3c shows a scenario of a low wetting inner wall surface wherein the liquid meniscus has a liquid And is convex as the contact with the wall 355c is reduced by moving away from the wall 355c. In the high wetting scenario of Figure 3 (a), the diffusion of liquid along the wall 355c increases the surface area of the wall 355 that is in contact with the nanowire 320a, and thereby, as in the case of, for example, Thereby increasing the likelihood that a portion 320a of the nanowire will adhere to the wall 355a. In contrast, in the low wetting scenario of Figure 3 (c), the movement of liquid away from the wall 355c reduces the surface area of the wall 355c that is allowed to contact the nanowire 320c, 355c of the nanowire 320c.

Or alternatively with respect to the effect of surface wettability, adhesion of the nanowires to the inner wall surface can be influenced by the surface chemistry of the inner wall surface. For example, glass and similar materials may have a dangling bond, typically representing an unsatisfactory valence of the constituent atoms. While not wishing to be bound by any particular theory of operation, the presence of such dangling bonds on the inner wall surface can facilitate chemical interactions between the inner wall surface and the nanowires from the suspension, thereby making it possible for the nanowires to adhere to the inner wall surface . Adhesion of such nanowires can occur even when there is substantially no evaporation and when there is no tilting, shaking or other movement of the vessel that actually holds the nanowire suspension. 4 (a) shows a scenario of a wall 455 formed of glass or other similar material to which nanowire 420a adheres, and Fig. 4 (b) shows a scenario of adhesion- And a wall 455b formed of a resistant material.

Examples of suitable wetting and adhesion-resistant materials include fluorinated polymers (or fluoropolymers), such as fluorocarbon-based polymers having carbon-fluorine bonds. The strength and stability of the carbon-fluorine bond contributes to the wet-resistance, low-adhesion and low-friction properties of the fluorinated polymer, and a substantial absence of the dangling bonds is attributed to the adhesion-resistant nature of the fluorinated polymer towards the nanowires Contributing. The fluorinated polymer may be entirely doped with fluorine, for example, all available carbohydrate-hydrogen bonds of the corresponding hydrocarbon-based polymer may be replaced by carbon-fluorine bonds, or partially fluorine may be added, For example, a subset of the available carbon-hydrogen bonds of the corresponding hydrocarbon-based polymer is replaced by a carbon-fluorine bond. The fluorinated polymer may be a homopolymer comprising one type of monomer unit or a copolymer comprising more than one type of monomer unit.

Examples of suitable fluorinated polymers include:

(1) Polyvinyl fluoride (or PVF) which may be represented as follows:

(2) Polyvinylidene difluoride (or PVDF) which may be represented as:

(3) Polytetrafluoroethylene (or PTFE) which may be represented as:

(4) polychlorotrifluoroethylene (or PCTFE or PTFCE) which may be represented as:

(5) Perfluoroalkoxy polymer (or PFA) which may be represented as:

(6) Fluorinated ethylene propylene (or FEP) which may be expressed as:

(7) Ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (or poly (ethylene-co-tetrafluoroethylene) or ETFE) which may be expressed as follows:

(8) ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene (or poly (ethylene-co-chlorotrifluoroethylene) or ECTFE) which may be represented as follows:

(9) Perfluorosulfonic acid (or PFSA)

(10) Perfluoropolyether (or PFPE)

(11) Fluorocarbon (chlorotrifluoroethylene vinylidene fluoride) (or FPM / FKM)

(12) Fluorine and the added elastomer (perfluoroelastomer) (or FFPM / FFKM)

(13) Perfluoropolyoxepane

(14) A combination of two or more polymers of the fluorinated polymers described above.

Additional examples of suitable wet- and adhesive-resistant materials include high density polyethylene having a density of at least 0.941 g / cm3; Inorganic polymers such as silicon-based polymers; Superhydrophobic material; Superhydrophilic material; And combinations thereof.

Referring again to FIG. 1 (b), substantially all of the inner wall surface of the container 100b may be formed or coated with a fluorinated polymer in some embodiments. To reduce the cost associated with the use of the fluorinated polymer (which may be several times that of other non-fluorinated additive materials), a portion of the inner wall surface of the container 100b may be formed or coated with a fluorinated polymer. For example, a portion of the wall 155b corresponding to the main body portion and a lower half of the neck portion of the container 100b (these portions appear to be in more frequent contact with the nanowire suspension) may be formed or coated with a fluorinated polymer While the remainder of the wall 155b may be formed or coated with glass, a non-fluorine addition polymer, or other non-fluorine additive material. As another example, the portion of the wall 155b around the liquid meniscus of the neck portion of the vessel 100b (which appears to be more frequently in contact with a portion of the nanowire 120b in the case of evaporation) is formed of a fluorinated polymer Or the remaining portion of the wall 155b may be formed or coated with a free, non-fluorine addition polymer, or other non-fluorine additive material. Optionally, plug 150b may also be formed or coated with a fluorinated polymer.

Another solution to the nanowire agglomeration problem is shown in Figure 5 according to embodiments of the present invention. In this embodiment, the container 500 is configured in a similar form to a syringe to provide an adjustable head space. Specifically, the vessel 500 includes a movable plunger 560 of a size and shape that fits the inner cross-section of the vessel 500, and the suspension of the nanowire 520 in the solvent 510 passes through the plunger 560 And is limited to the volume between the caps 570 of the container 500. Movement of the plunger 560 can move the suspension toward the stopper 570, so that the head space can be reduced and substantially eliminated, thereby preventing the evaporation of the solvent 510 from the suspension.

The wall 565 of the vessel 500 is formed of a material that is resistant to wetting by the solvent 510 or is resistant to adhesion of the nanowire 520 or both Or may be coated. For example, the wall 555 of the syringe-type vessel 500 shown in FIG. 5 may be formed or coated with a fluorinated polymer.

By retaining the nanowires in accordance with the techniques described herein, many benefits can be gained. In some implementations, nanowires of higher aspect ratios, larger lengths, and smaller diameters may be stored for extended periods of time while nanowire aggregate formation is reduced or inhibited. In some implementations, larger concentrations of nanowires may be stored for extended periods of time while nanowire aggregate formation is reduced or inhibited.

(E.g., at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 30%) of at least about 30% of the nanowires in the suspension At least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%, or at least about 60%, and up to about 80%, up to about 90% Lt; / RTI > At least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 30%, at least about 40% , About 60%, or at least about 65%, and up to about 75%, up to about 85% or more of the nanowires may have an aspect ratio of at least about 100. At least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 50% 55% or at least about 60%, and up to about 70%, up to about 80% or more of the nanowires may have an aspect ratio of at least about 200. At least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 50% 55% or at least about 60%, and up to about 70%, up to about 80% or more of the nanowires may have an aspect ratio of at least about 400.

As another example, a nanowire (e.g.,% of a number) such as at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50% , At least about 55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%, or at least about 60%, and up to about 80%, up to about 90% or more of the nanowires have a length of at least about 10 [ Lt; / RTI > At least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 30%, at least about 40% , About 60%, or at least about 65%, and up to about 75%, up to about 85% or more of the nanowires may have a length of at least about 20 [mu] m. At least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 50% 55% or at least about 60%, and up to about 70%, up to about 80% or more of the nanowires may have a length of at least about 30 microns.

As another example, a nanowire (e.g.,% of a number) such as at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50% , At least about 55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%, or at least about 60%, and up to about 80%, up to about 90% or more of the nanowires have a diameter of about 100 nm or less . At least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 30%, at least about 40% , About 60% or at least about 65%, and up to about 75%, up to about 85% or more of the nanowires may have a diameter of about 60 nm or less. At least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 50% 55% or at least about 60%, and up to about 70%, up to about 80% or more of the nanowires may have a diameter of about 40 nm or less.

As another example, the concentration of nanowires in the suspension may be at least about 4 mg / mL, such as at least about 5 mg / mL, at least about 6 mg / mL, at least about 7 mg / mL, at least about 8 mg / mL, at least about 9 mg / ML, up to about 16 mg / mL or greater, up to about 10 mg / mL, greater than about 11 mg / mL or 12 mg / mL, and up to about 15 mg / mL.

By reducing or inhibiting aggregate formation, the shelf life of a nanowire suspension stored in a container can be extended, such as an expiration date of at least about 14 days, at least about 30 days, at least about 60 days, at least about 90 days, at least about At least about 150 days, at least about 180 days, at least about 210 days, at least about 240 days, or at least about 365 days, and up to about 390 days, up to about 420 days, or more. In some implementations, the shelf life of a nanowire suspension may be characterized in terms of the degree of aggregate formation remaining within an acceptable level over a period of time corresponding to its shelf life. The extent of aggregate formation may be characterized by a combination of any one, two, or more of the following tests:

(1) The concentration of the nanowires that remain dispersed in the suspension (or that can be redispersed, for example by gentle agitation) can be measured after a storage time period in the vessel, for example, using optical techniques . For example, the concentration of silver nanowires in a suspension can be measured by optical absorption of ultraviolet (or UV) to visible (or vis) portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. The concentration of the nanowires in the suspension (or the sample taken from the suspension) can be measured from the measurement of the optical density, which can be measured by passing the light through the suspension in the vertical direction and measuring the attenuation of the light. Light can be attenuated mainly by scattering, but some absorption can also be included. The measured attenuation can be compared to the initial attenuation measurement, or can be compared to the attenuation measurement for a suspension of known nanowire concentrations. The degree of aggregation formation in the suspension may be such that if the reduction in nanowire concentration is less than about 10%, such as less than about 9%, less than about 8%, less than about 7%, less than about 6%, less than about 5% No more than about 4%, no more than about 3%, no more than about 2%, or no more than about 1%, may be considered acceptable over a period of time.

(2) The amount of nanowires adhered to the wall of the container can be measured after being stored in the container for a certain period of time, for example by scraping the wall or by appropriate chemical treatment. Nanowires precipitated as clumps can also be identified by such evaluations. For example, silver nanowires adhered to a wall of a container can be weighed and measured for the initial weight of the silver nanowires placed in the container, which can be estimated, for example, according to the initial nanowire concentration and the initial volume of the nanowire suspension Can be compared. The degree of agglutination in the suspension is such that if the weight of the adhered silver nanowires is less than about 10%, such as less than about 9%, less than about 8%, less than about 7%, less than about 6% Or less, about 4% or less, about 3% or less, about 2% or less, or about 1% or less.

(3) The presence and size of any aggregates in the suspension can be measured using the fineness of the grind gauge after being stored for a period of time in the vessel. As will be appreciated, the fineness of the grind gauge typically includes a trough of varying depth. The presence and number of aggregates of the top, and of each size, corresponding to the deepest portion of the troughs can be measured by their location along the troughs. Aggregates may appear as point defects or streaks. In the case of a strike, the position may be recorded as the start point of the strike, that is, the portion of the strike closest to the top of the gauge.

The measured number of aggregates of each size can be compared to a reference aggregate size distribution for an acceptable suspension to determine whether the suspension in question can be tolerated. It is noted that the specification of the reference aggregate size distribution may depend on the particular application for the nanowire suspension. In some implementations, the reference agglomerate size distribution may be used for different nanowire suspensions, using suspensions in the desired applications (e.g., when a coating or film is to be formed on a transparent conductive electrode) and analyzing the application results to determine if the result is acceptable And can be specified by measuring the aggregate size distribution by relating the aggregate size distribution to the quality of the result obtained using the suspension.

For example, the reference agglomerate size distribution for an acceptable suspension for an application may be specified as follows: a) not greater than 3, not greater than 2, not greater than 1 for agglomerates having a size greater than about 100 탆 Presence or absence; b) no more than three, no more than two, no more than one, or none of the aggregates having a size of at least about 90 탆; c) no more than three, no more than two, no more than one, or none of the aggregates having a size of at least about 80 micrometers; d) no more than three, no more than two, no more than one, or none of the aggregates having a size of at least about 70 占 퐉; e) not more than 3, not more than 2, not more than 1 present or absence of agglomerates having a size of at least about 60 μm; f) not more than 3, not more than 1, not more than 1 present or absence of agglomerates having a size of at least about 50 μm; g) no more than three, no more than two, no more than one, or none of the aggregates having a size of at least about 40 占 퐉; Or h) a combination of two or more of the foregoing.

(4) After being stored in the container for a period of time, the nanowire suspension can be used in a desired application (e.g., when a coating or film is to be formed on a transparent conductive electrode) and the application result is that the result is of an acceptable quality ≪ / RTI > For example, a suspension of silver nanowires may be used to form a coating or film on a transparent conductive electrode after being stored for a period of time. Values for any one or combination of the fog, permeability and sheet resistance can be measured and compared to the corresponding reference values, e.g., the values for the suspension of silver nanowires before storage. The degree of agglomerate formation in the suspensions in question is such that if the difference in value for any one or combination of fog, permeability and sheet resistance is less than about +/- 10%, such as less than about +/- 9%, less than about +/- 8% Or less, about ± 7%, about ± 6%, about ± 5%, about ± 4%, about ± 3%, about ± 2%, or about ± 1% Can be regarded as possible.

Additional embodiments

The techniques described herein in the context of the storage of nanostructures can also be applied to the handling of other aspects of nanostructures. Specifically, nanowire suspensions can become less stable when subjected to shear forces. The shear forces can torque the nano and the teeth, and the rotation of the nanowires close to each other can cause them to aggregate together to form larger irreversible aggregates. Therefore, the transfer or transfer of the nanowire suspension into and out of the vessel must reduce or minimize the shear force.

In order to reduce the shear force, the fluid delivery or transport components, such as piping, pipes, pipettes, etc., may be formed or coated with a low-adhesion or low-friction material, such as a fluorinated polymer as described above. In addition, the size or shape of the fluid delivery component may be further selected to reduce the shear force, for example by using a tubing of larger cross sectional diameter to transport the nanowire suspension into and out of the vessel. Furthermore, a low shear pump, such as a lobe pump, an internal gear pump and a progressive cavity pump, may be used. In addition, the coating equipment and associated components, such as slot die, may be formed or coated with a low-adhesion or low-friction material, such as the fluorinated polymer described above.

Example

The following examples illustrate certain aspects of some embodiments of the invention for illustration and description to those skilled in the art. The embodiments are not to be construed as limiting the invention, as merely providing a specific methodology useful for understanding and practicing certain embodiments of the present invention.

The suspension of nanowires is stored in different types of bottles and the degree of aggregate formation is assessed for disease. Figure 6 (a) shows silver nanowires suspended in isopropyl alcohol (or IPA) approximately one minute after shaking in a glass bottle. As can be seen in Figure 6 (a), the suspension did not undergo appreciable de-wetting from the inner wall surface. Figure 6 (b) shows silver nanowires in IPA after about 2 minutes of shaking in the same container. The suspension of the head space was mostly dried by IPA evaporation and the nanowire agglomerates adhered to the inner wall surface. Figure 6 (c) shows silver nanowires in IPA after storage in glass bottles for about two weeks. A significant amount of aggregate can be seen on the inner wall glass surface.

Compared to these, Figure 7 (a) shows silver nanowires suspended in IPA after about 20 seconds after shaking in perfluoroalkoxy polymer (or PFA) bottle. As can be seen in Figure 7 (a), the suspension is de-wetted from the inner wall surface. FIG. 7 (b) shows silver nanowires in IPA after about 1 minute after shaking in the same container. The suspension of head space was mostly de-wetted from the inner wall surface. Figure 7 (c) shows silver nanowires in IPA after storage in PFA bottles for about 2 weeks. Silver nanowires sink to the bottom of the PFA bottle. The IPA was evaporated into the head space, and a small amount of agglomerate was observed to adhere to the inner wall surface.

As another comparison, Figure 8 (a) shows silver nanowires suspended in IPA after about 10 seconds of shaking in a fluorinated ethylene propylene (or FEP) bottle. As can be seen in Figure 8 (a), the suspension is de-wetted from the inner wall surface. FIG. 8 (b) shows silver nanowires in IPA after about 30 seconds from shaking in the same container. The suspension of head space is substantially de-wetted from the inner wall surface at a faster rate as compared to the PFA surface. Figure 8 (c) shows silver nanowires in IPA after being stored in FEP bottles for about two weeks. Silver nanowires sank to the bottom of the FEP bottle. IPA evaporated into the head space and condensed like beads, but few aggregates appeared to be adhered to the inner wall surface.

From the above evaluation, it was determined that the silver nanowires were easy to adhere to the wall of the glass bottle and that the wall of the FEP bottle was not easy to adhere. When the suspension of silver nanowires in alcohol was stored for an extended period of time in the vial, the nanowires were found to adhere to the glass wall as the alcohol evaporated, but when suspensions of the same composition were similarly stored in the FEP bottle Little or no adhesion to the wall was observed. Although not constrained to a particular theory of operation, the surface wettability of relatively low fluorinated polymers as compared to that of glass can account for the observed differences between FEP and glass bottles. Also, according to the evaluation, PFA exhibited less adhesion of silver nanowires compared to glass, but at higher concentrations of silver nanowires it was somewhat more than FEP.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. It should be noted. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation, material, composition of matter, method or process to the purpose, spirit, and scope of the present invention. All such modifications are intended to be within the scope of the claims appended hereto. In particular, although the methods described herein have been described with reference to particular acts performed in a particular order, it is to be understood that these acts may be combined, subdivided, or reordered so that equivalent methods may be performed without departing from the teachings of the present invention Will be recognized. Accordingly, the order of operations and groups of operations are not intended to limit the present invention unless otherwise indicated herein.

Claims (30)

Providing a nanowire suspension comprising nanowires suspended in a liquid; And
Placing a nanowire suspension in a container for storage,
Wherein the container is configured to inhibit nanowire aggregation from the nanowire suspension. The method of claim 1, wherein the head space of the vessel is sized to inhibit evaporation of liquid from the nanowire suspension. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the walls of the container are resistant to adhesion of the nanowires from the nanowire suspension. The method of claim 1, wherein the walls of the vessel are resistant to wetting by liquid. The method of claim 1 wherein the walls of the vessel are formed or coated with a fluorinated polymer. 6. The process of claim 5, wherein the fluorinated polymer is selected from polytetrafluoroethylene, fluorinated ethylene propylene, and ethylene tetrafluoroethylene. The method according to claim 1,
The head space of the vessel is sized to inhibit evaporation of liquid from the nanowire suspension;
Characterized in that the walls of the container are resistant to wetting by liquids. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the walls of the vessel are formed or coated with a fluorinated polymer. The process according to claim 8, characterized in that the fluorinated polymer is fluorinated ethylene propylene. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the container comprises a movable plunger of a size and shape sized to conform to an interior cross-section of the container, wherein placing the nanowire suspension in the container comprises moving the nanowire suspension into a volume between the movable plunger and the opening of the container ≪ / RTI > 11. A method according to claim 10, characterized in that the walls of the vessel are resistant to wetting by liquids. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein placing the nanowire suspension in a container is performed subsequent to synthesis of the nanowire in the nanowire suspension. Providing a nanowire suspension comprising nanowires suspended in a liquid; And
Placing a nanowire suspension in a container for storage,
Wherein the walls of the vessel are (1) resistant to attachment of the nanowires from the nanowire suspension; And (2) resistance to wetting by liquids. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the walls of the vessel are formed or coated with a fluorinated polymer. 15. The process according to claim 14, characterized in that the fluorinated polymer is fluorinated ethylene propylene. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the head space of the vessel is sized to inhibit evaporation of liquid from the nanowire suspension. Storage container; And
A nanowire suspension disposed in a storage container,
Wherein the nanowire suspension comprises nanowires suspended in a liquid and the reservoir is configured to inhibit agglomeration of the nanowires from the nanowire suspension. 18. An article of manufacture according to claim 17, wherein the containment vessel comprises a wall formed or coated with a material resistant to adhesion of nanowires from the nanowire suspension. 18. An article of manufacture according to claim 17, wherein the storage container comprises a wall formed or coated with a material resistant to wetting by liquid. 18. An article of manufacture according to claim 17, wherein the containment vessel comprises a wall formed or coated with a fluorinated polymer. 21. The article of manufacture of claim 20, wherein the fluorinated polymer is fluorinated ethylene propylene. 21. The article of manufacture of claim 20, wherein the head space of the containment vessel is sized to inhibit evaporation of liquid from the nanowire suspension. 18. An article of manufacture according to claim 17, wherein the storage container is configured in a form having an adjustable head space. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the storage vessel comprises a movable plunger of a size and shape that fits within the interior section of the storage vessel, wherein the nanowire suspension is confined to a volume between the movable plunger and the bore of the storage vessel Manufactured goods. 25. An article of manufacture according to claim 24, wherein the containment vessel comprises a wall formed or coated with a fluorinated polymer. Storage container; And
A nanowire suspension disposed in a storage container,
Wherein the nanowire suspension comprises nanowires suspended in a liquid, wherein the reservoir is: (1) resistant to attachment of the nanowires from the nanowire suspension; And (2) resistance to wetting by liquids. ≪ Desc / Clms Page number 13 > 27. An article of manufacture according to claim 26, wherein the walls of the storage vessel are formed or coated with a fluorinated polymer. 28. The article of manufacture of claim 27, wherein the fluorinated polymer is fluorinated ethylene propylene. 27. The article of manufacture of claim 26, wherein the head space of the containment vessel is sized to inhibit evaporation of liquid from the nanowire suspension. 27. An article of manufacture according to claim 26, wherein the storage container is configured in a form having an adjustable head space.

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